A University of Georgia-Atlanta Journal-Constitution poll puts Bottoms below a runoff-avoiding majority, with Mike Thurmond at 10%, Jason Esteves 8% and Geoff Duncan 7%.
Analysts said the large undecided bloc, with the May 19 primary two weeks away, leaves rivals a path to force a runoff and then consolidate support.
The survey followed last week's Atlanta Press Club debate, and early voting is already under way in a race where earlier polls also suggested a possible June 19 runoff.
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